For each image in a set of images, a representation of the image at a first level of quality is derived using a first representation of the image at a second, higher level of quality and is output for processing by a decoder. Configuration data is output for processing by the decoder to enable the decoder to detect whether or not the first representation of a given image in the set of images is to be reconstructed using residual data for the given image, the residual data: (i) being useable to reconstruct the first representation using a second representation of the image at the second level of quality, the second representation being based on the representation of the image at the first level of quality, and (ii) being derived based on the first representation and the second representation.
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2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises a configuration parameter having a variable bit-length and that is stored in a variable-length element, the variable-length element comprising at least one given byte having one or more predetermined bits arranged to indicate whether or not the variable-length element comprises one or more additional bytes to the at least one given byte.
This invention relates to a method for managing configuration parameters in a computing system, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently storing and retrieving variable-length configuration parameters. The method involves storing a configuration parameter with a variable bit-length in a variable-length element, where the element includes at least one given byte. Within this byte, one or more predetermined bits are used to indicate whether the variable-length element contains additional bytes beyond the initial given byte. This approach allows for flexible storage of parameters of varying lengths while minimizing overhead by dynamically extending the element only when necessary. The method ensures efficient memory usage and simplifies the retrieval process by providing a clear indication of the element's length through the predetermined bits. This is particularly useful in systems where configuration parameters may vary significantly in size, such as in embedded systems, network protocols, or software applications requiring dynamic configuration. The invention improves upon traditional fixed-length storage methods by reducing wasted space and improving adaptability to different parameter sizes.
3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the parameter presence indicator is comprised in a residual use parameter, wherein the residual use parameter is useable by the decoder to detect whether or not the first representation of the image is to be reconstructed using the residual data.
This invention relates to image decoding, specifically improving efficiency in determining whether residual data should be used to reconstruct an image representation. The problem addressed is the need for a decoder to efficiently determine the presence and relevance of residual data without unnecessary processing overhead. The solution involves encoding a parameter presence indicator within a residual use parameter, which the decoder can use to decide whether to reconstruct the first representation of the image using the residual data. The residual use parameter acts as a flag, allowing the decoder to skip unnecessary reconstruction steps if the residual data is not needed. This approach optimizes decoding by reducing computational effort when residual data is not required, improving overall processing efficiency. The method ensures that the decoder can quickly assess the relevance of residual data before proceeding with reconstruction, minimizing redundant operations. This technique is particularly useful in systems where processing resources are limited, such as real-time video decoding or low-power devices. The invention enhances decoding efficiency by integrating the parameter presence indicator directly into the residual use parameter, streamlining the decision-making process for the decoder.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises quantization data indicative of a quantization level of data useable by the decoder to reconstruct the first representation of the image.
This invention relates to image decoding, specifically improving efficiency and accuracy in reconstructing image data from encoded representations. The problem addressed is the need for decoders to accurately interpret and apply configuration parameters, such as quantization levels, to reconstruct high-quality images from compressed data. Quantization is a critical step in image compression, where data is reduced in precision to save storage or bandwidth, but improper handling can lead to artifacts or loss of detail. The method involves a decoder receiving an encoded image representation and a set of configuration parameters. These parameters include quantization data, which specifies the level of quantization applied during encoding. The decoder uses this information to accurately reconstruct the original image by reversing the quantization process. By incorporating quantization data into the configuration parameters, the decoder can precisely adjust the reconstructed image's quality, balancing between compression efficiency and visual fidelity. This approach ensures that the decoder can handle varying levels of quantization without additional processing overhead, improving both performance and image quality. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time decoding, such as video streaming or high-resolution image transmission, where efficient and accurate reconstruction is essential.
5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises an image type parameter that specifies whether the first representation of the image relates to a progressive or an interlaced video.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically methods for encoding or decoding video data with configurable parameters. The problem addressed is the need for flexible handling of different video formats, particularly distinguishing between progressive and interlaced video representations. The method involves processing a video image using a set of configuration parameters that include an image type parameter. This parameter specifies whether the image representation is progressive or interlaced, allowing the system to adapt its processing accordingly. Progressive video captures each frame sequentially, while interlaced video splits frames into odd and even lines, requiring different encoding or decoding techniques. The method ensures compatibility with both formats by dynamically adjusting processing based on the specified image type. This flexibility is crucial for systems that must handle diverse video sources, such as broadcast, streaming, or archival media, where format consistency is not guaranteed. The invention improves efficiency and accuracy by avoiding assumptions about video format, reducing errors in playback or storage. The configuration parameters may also include other settings, such as resolution or compression levels, but the image type parameter is critical for correct format handling. The method applies to both encoding (converting raw video to a compressed format) and decoding (reconstructing video from compressed data), ensuring broad applicability in multimedia systems.
6. The method according to claim 1, wherein in a case where the first representation of the image relates to an interlaced video, the image type parameter also specifies a field type.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically methods for handling interlaced video in image encoding or decoding systems. Interlaced video consists of alternating fields that represent even and odd lines of a frame, and improper handling can lead to visual artifacts or inefficiencies in compression. The invention addresses the need to accurately represent the field type (e.g., top or bottom field) within an interlaced video stream to ensure proper decoding and display. The method involves encoding or decoding an image where the image type parameter includes additional information specifying the field type when the image is part of an interlaced video. This ensures that the encoding or decoding process correctly interprets whether the current field is the top or bottom field of an interlaced frame, which is critical for maintaining synchronization and avoiding visual distortions. The field type specification may be used to adjust processing steps such as motion compensation, deinterlacing, or frame reconstruction to handle interlaced content appropriately. By explicitly including the field type in the image type parameter, the method improves compatibility with interlaced video formats and enhances the quality of encoded or decoded video. This is particularly useful in video compression standards where interlaced content must be processed efficiently while preserving visual fidelity. The invention ensures that interlaced video is handled correctly in systems that may otherwise treat all video as progressive, preventing artifacts like combing or misalignment.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises a version number according to which the decoder is configured to operate.
A method for configuring a decoder involves using a set of configuration parameters that includes a version number. The version number specifies the operational mode or compatibility requirements of the decoder, ensuring it functions correctly with the provided parameters. This allows the decoder to adapt its processing based on the version, enabling backward or forward compatibility with different parameter sets or data formats. The method ensures that the decoder can interpret and apply the configuration parameters accurately, maintaining proper functionality across different versions or implementations. The version number may also indicate specific features, optimizations, or constraints associated with the decoder's operation, ensuring consistent behavior in diverse applications. This approach enhances flexibility and reliability in decoder configuration, particularly in systems where multiple versions or updates may be deployed.
8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the parameter presence indicator comprises at least one predetermined bit in a predetermined byte of the configuration data.
This invention relates to a method for managing configuration data in a system, particularly focusing on efficiently indicating the presence or absence of specific parameters within the data. The problem addressed is the need for a compact and standardized way to signal whether certain parameters are included in configuration data, ensuring compatibility and reducing processing overhead. The method involves using a parameter presence indicator embedded within the configuration data to denote which parameters are present. Specifically, the indicator comprises at least one predetermined bit in a predetermined byte of the configuration data. This allows a receiving system to quickly determine the availability of parameters without extensive parsing or additional metadata. The predetermined byte and bit positions are predefined, ensuring consistency across different implementations. The method may also include generating the configuration data by setting the predetermined bit(s) based on the presence of corresponding parameters. A receiving system reads the predetermined byte to check the bit(s) and processes only the parameters indicated as present. This approach minimizes unnecessary data processing and improves system efficiency, particularly in resource-constrained environments. The invention is applicable in systems where configuration data must be transmitted or stored efficiently, such as embedded systems, network protocols, or firmware updates. By using a fixed bit in a known byte, the method ensures reliable parameter detection while maintaining simplicity and scalability.
9. The method according to claim 1, the method comprising performing byte-wise processing on the configuration data.
This invention relates to a method for processing configuration data in a computing system, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing and applying configuration settings across different hardware or software components. The method involves performing byte-wise processing on the configuration data, which allows for precise manipulation of individual bytes within the data structure. This byte-level granularity enables fine-tuned adjustments to configuration parameters, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance across diverse system environments. The processing may include parsing, modifying, or validating the configuration data at the byte level, which is particularly useful for systems where configuration settings are stored in binary or compact formats. The method may also involve interpreting the byte-wise processed data to generate executable instructions or to update system settings dynamically. This approach enhances flexibility and reduces errors in configuration management, making it suitable for embedded systems, firmware updates, or real-time configuration adjustments in high-performance computing environments. The byte-wise processing ensures that even minor configuration changes are accurately applied without disrupting system operations, improving reliability and efficiency in configuration handling.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises a configuration parameter having a variable bit-length and that is stored in a variable-length element, the variable-length element comprising at least one given byte having one or more predetermined bits arranged to indicate whether or not the variable-length element comprises one or more additional bytes to the at least one given byte.
This invention relates to data processing systems, specifically methods for handling configuration parameters with variable bit-lengths. The problem addressed is the efficient storage and retrieval of configuration parameters that may vary in size, which is common in systems requiring flexible data structures. The method involves storing a configuration parameter with a variable bit-length in a variable-length element. This element includes at least one given byte, where one or more predetermined bits within that byte indicate whether the element contains additional bytes beyond the given byte. This allows the system to dynamically determine the length of the variable-length element by examining these indicator bits, eliminating the need for fixed-length storage or separate length fields. The approach optimizes memory usage and simplifies parsing by embedding length information directly within the data structure. The method is particularly useful in systems where configuration parameters must be compactly stored and quickly accessed, such as embedded systems, communication protocols, or data serialization formats. By using a variable-length element with embedded length indicators, the system can efficiently handle parameters of different sizes without sacrificing performance or increasing complexity. The invention ensures that the configuration data remains both space-efficient and easily interpretable.
12. The method according to claim 10, wherein the parameter presence indicator is comprised in a residual use parameter, wherein the residual use parameter is useable to detect whether or not the first representation of the image is to be reconstructed using the residual data.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically methods for encoding and decoding image data to improve compression efficiency. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently signal the presence of parameters in encoded image data, particularly when reconstructing an image from residual data. Residual data represents differences between an original image and a predicted version, and its effective use is critical for compression performance. The method involves a parameter presence indicator embedded within a residual use parameter. This indicator determines whether a first representation of an image should be reconstructed using residual data. The residual use parameter serves a dual purpose: it not only signals the presence of the parameter but also facilitates the detection of whether residual data is required for reconstruction. This approach optimizes the encoding process by reducing redundant signaling and improving decoding efficiency. The method ensures that only necessary parameters are transmitted, minimizing bandwidth and computational overhead while maintaining image quality. The technique is particularly useful in video coding standards where efficient parameter signaling is crucial for real-time applications. By integrating the presence indicator into the residual use parameter, the method streamlines the encoding and decoding workflow, enhancing overall system performance.
13. The method according to claim 10, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises quantization data indicative of a quantization level of data useable by the decoder to reconstruct the first representation of the image.
This invention relates to image decoding techniques, specifically improving the efficiency and accuracy of reconstructing image data from compressed representations. The problem addressed is the need for precise control over the quantization process during image decoding, which directly impacts the quality and file size of the reconstructed image. Quantization is a critical step in image compression, where high-frequency details are often discarded to reduce data size, but excessive quantization can lead to visible artifacts. The invention describes a method for decoding an image where a decoder receives a compressed representation of the image along with a set of configuration parameters. These parameters include quantization data that specifies the quantization level applied during encoding. The decoder uses this information to accurately reconstruct the original image by reversing the quantization process. The quantization level determines how much detail is retained or discarded, allowing a balance between image quality and compression efficiency. By explicitly providing this data, the method ensures consistent and predictable reconstruction quality across different decoding implementations. The configuration parameters may also include other settings that influence the decoding process, such as color space transformations or filtering operations. The method ensures that the decoder can adapt its reconstruction process based on the provided parameters, optimizing both performance and output quality. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring high-fidelity image reconstruction, such as medical imaging, professional photography, or high-resolution displays.
14. The method according to claim 10, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises an image type parameter that specifies whether the first representation of the image relates to a progressive or an interlaced video.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically methods for handling configuration parameters in video encoding or decoding systems. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently manage and apply configuration parameters that determine how video frames are processed, particularly distinguishing between progressive and interlaced video formats. The method involves a system that processes a set of configuration parameters for encoding or decoding video data. These parameters include an image type parameter that specifies whether the video frame being processed is progressive or interlaced. Progressive video frames are captured and displayed sequentially, while interlaced video frames are split into odd and even lines, requiring specialized handling. The system uses this parameter to adjust processing steps, such as frame reconstruction or compression, to ensure correct rendering of the video content. The configuration parameters may also include other settings that define how the video data is processed, such as resolution, color space, or encoding settings. The system dynamically applies these parameters to optimize performance and compatibility across different video formats. This approach ensures that video frames are accurately reconstructed or compressed, regardless of whether they are progressive or interlaced, improving video quality and reducing artifacts. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time video processing, such as streaming, broadcasting, or video conferencing.
15. The method according to claim 10, wherein in a case where the first representation of the image relates to an interlaced video, the image type parameter also specifies a field type.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically methods for encoding and decoding images, including interlaced video. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently represent and process different types of images, such as progressive or interlaced video, while ensuring compatibility with encoding and decoding systems. The method involves determining an image type parameter that indicates whether an image is progressive or interlaced. For interlaced video, the parameter further specifies the field type, such as top field or bottom field. This allows the encoding and decoding systems to correctly interpret the image structure, improving processing accuracy and reducing errors. The method also includes generating a bitstream containing the image type parameter and field type information, which is then used during decoding to reconstruct the image properly. This ensures that interlaced video frames are processed correctly, maintaining visual quality and avoiding artifacts. The invention improves upon existing systems by providing a more detailed and flexible way to handle different image types, particularly interlaced video, which is common in legacy video formats. By explicitly specifying the field type, the method ensures that encoding and decoding systems can accurately process interlaced content without ambiguity. This is particularly useful in applications requiring high-quality video playback, such as broadcasting and video streaming.
16. The method according to claim 10, wherein the given set of configuration parameters comprises a version number.
A method for managing software configurations involves storing a set of configuration parameters for a software application, where the parameters define operational settings. The method includes retrieving the stored parameters, applying them to the software, and dynamically updating the parameters in response to changes in the software environment. The configuration parameters include a version number, which allows tracking and compatibility checks between different software versions. The method ensures that the software operates with the correct settings, improving reliability and reducing errors caused by misconfigurations. The version number helps maintain consistency when updating or rolling back software versions, ensuring that the configuration parameters remain compatible with the installed software version. This approach automates configuration management, reducing manual intervention and minimizing downtime during software updates. The method is particularly useful in distributed systems where multiple instances of the software must be synchronized with consistent configurations. By including a version number, the system can detect and resolve conflicts between different configuration versions, ensuring seamless operation across the entire deployment.
17. The method according to claim 10, wherein the parameter presence indicator comprises at least one predetermined bit in a predetermined byte of the configuration data, the method comprising performing byte-wise processing on the configuration data.
This invention relates to a method for processing configuration data in a computing system, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently determining the presence or absence of specific parameters within the configuration data. The method involves using a parameter presence indicator, which is encoded as at least one predetermined bit within a predetermined byte of the configuration data. This indicator allows the system to quickly identify whether a particular parameter is present without requiring a full scan of the entire configuration data. The method performs byte-wise processing on the configuration data, meaning it examines each byte individually to check the state of the predetermined bit(s) that serve as the presence indicator. This approach improves efficiency by reducing the computational overhead associated with parameter detection, particularly in systems where configuration data is large or frequently accessed. The method is applicable in scenarios where configuration data is dynamically updated or where real-time parameter validation is required, such as in embedded systems, network devices, or software applications that rely on configurable settings. By leveraging bit-level indicators within specific bytes, the method ensures fast and reliable parameter presence detection, enhancing system performance and responsiveness.
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May 8, 2023
June 4, 2024
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